Burn Resuscitation (Parkland)
Enter patient weight and percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burned to calculate the first 24-hour lactated Ringer’s requirement using the Parkland formula.
Exclude first-degree burns. Estimate using the rule of nines or Lund-Browder chart.
Standard Parkland uses 4 mL/kg/%TBSA. Some centres use 3–5 mL based on patient factors.
Total 24-hour fluid
8400 mL
Total body water estimate not provided here.
Monitor urine output and hemodynamics to titrate fluids.
First 8 hours
4200 mL
Rate: 525 mL/hr (from time of injury)
Next 16 hours
4200 mL
Rate: 263 mL/hr
How to Use This Calculator
Estimate burn size
Determine %TBSA using the rule of nines, Lund-Browder chart, or palm method. Exclude first-degree burns.
Account for fluids already given
Subtract pre-hospital or emergency department fluids from the first 8-hour volume. The clock starts at time of injury, not admission.
Titrate based on response
Monitor urine output, vitals, lactate, and base deficit. Adjust rate to meet resuscitation endpoints and avoid over-resuscitation.
Formula
Total fluid (mL) = Multiplier × Weight (kg) × %TBSA
Give half in the first 8 hours from time of burn, remaining half over the next 16 hours.
Standard multiplier = 4 mL/kg/%TBSA (lactated Ringer’s solution).
Full Description
The Parkland formula guides initial burn resuscitation by estimating crystalloid requirements within the first 24 hours. It is a starting point—clinical endpoints, comorbidities, inhalation injury, and paediatric considerations modify final fluid needs. Avoid “fluid creep” by re-evaluating frequently and de-escalating once resuscitation goals are met. Consider colloids or albumin after the first 12–24 hours if large volumes are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should resuscitation start?
Begin as soon as possible after injury. Use the time since burn to determine how much of the first 8-hour bolus remains to be given.
Do inhalation injuries change the formula?
Inhalation injuries often require more fluid. Some burn centres increase the multiplier (e.g., 4–5 mL/kg/%TBSA). Monitor response closely.
How does paediatric resuscitation differ?
Children require maintenance fluids in addition to Parkland calculations and have different urine output targets (1–1.5 mL/kg/hr).
What fluids should be used?
Lactated Ringer’s solution is standard. Avoid glucose-containing fluids unless required for maintenance in children.